Britex Fabrics

I have heard about Discount Fabrics through so many Facebook sewing and quilting groups, so of…read morecourse stopping at their San Francisco location was high on my list as I was passing through the area. While I came for the quilting cotton, I left with a completely different find... I purchased several yards of ripstop nylon for a future DIY stuff sack or lightweight outdoor pouch. The store is so, so large but honestly impressively organized, even with *huge* rolls of fabric everywhere. I loved that they have a public restroom (always a plus when fabric shopping turns into fabric hunting). The prices were excellent and the staff was helpful. If you're a crafter/sewist of any kind, this is a great place for a good deal!

The shop was closing as I was rushing to get there from San Jose. I called and they already knew…read morewhere to direct me to when I got there with 1 minute until closing time. These sweet people stayed open for me to get my materials I needed to make a dress for an emergency formal dinner that same night. I got it done and looked beautiful 3 hours later thanks to them. AWESOME customer service!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH AGAIN!

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Fabrix

4.1(72 reviews)

3.3 mi•Inner Richmond

I came here rather than going to a big-box craft store, which I've been wanting to do for a while,…read moreand I was so pleasantly surprised by the selection and by the service provided by the staff! Drove over to fabrix on a Monday and it happened to be the Clement street fair at the exact same time, luckily I found parking really quickly and proceeded to go inside to find my felt and embroidery supplies for the felt ornaments I'd been wanting to make for Christmas this year. I had NO clue what I was looking for and I'm so grateful to the staff for helping me find everything and being patient with me throughout the whole process. It was quiet in the shop at first but quickly became busy, but I honestly didn't mind waiting in line for my turn because the staff gave the same amount of time to me as they did to everyone in front of me in line. I was kind of surprised at how inexpensive the whole purchase was, after she showed me my total, because I hadn't checked the prices of anything. Most of the fabrics was labeled with a price but it's one of those stores that has so much inventory that it's not easy to see the prices of everything if you're someone like me with awful vision and a stubbornness not to get glasses Anyway, I highly recommend this local fabric store!! It's perfect for basically all of your fabric crafting needs!!

No complaints over here! Support small business! They e been going strong forever, and it's always…read moregreat to stop by and get their opinion on anything! Need a few yards of holiday ribbon? They got you! (That's what I needed.) Go on in and check it out. Bonus: if it's art walk or Clementine, stop by for a little art lesson!

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Cliff's Variety

4.4(656 reviews)

2.5 mi•Castro

It is a fun stroll going through this store, and I will find any excuse to do so. I always find one…read moreor more items I simply must have. Cliff's Variety is a place I go to for fun as well as when I actually need something they might have. Chances are, they do. I smile just thinking about going back again.

worth your time, browse , little of everything…read more worth your time, browse , little of everything

3.3 mi•Bayview-Hunters Point

Shiny slippers

Virus Ball !?

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Attitude

Scrap

4.0(331 reviews)

Scrap is exactly what you think it is - odds and ends of art supplies (some new, mostly used or…read moreopen) for the crafty. There is also some original art for sale. Something for everyone to scratch that creative itch. There's a lot going on here but it's organized by category which is helpful. Also, there's an option to donate here which is always great! Agree with other reviewers that the area doesn't feel the safest and is a bit apocalyptic (barbed fence wires with no one walking around) but I think it adds to the charm of the place. Just don't recommend coming here at night and take an Uber/drive if you can as it's located in an industrial area.

This place is so exciting as a multi media artist and crafter! It's very organized, although the…read morelabels on bins aren't usually accurate. There are a wealth of items from wood, metal, fabric and art supplies. Legitimately there is a little for everyone here! The aisles are clear and wide, the floor is flat with very few obstacles, I felt like it was easy to walk around with a cane. My only con, and I truly do understand why, there was no handicapped accessible bathroom available. Anyhow, great fun, lots of possibilities!

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Mendel's

3.3(183 reviews)

2.7 mi•The Haight

They have a glorious collection of tools for so many crafts. There are enough staff so you can…read morefind some One to tell you where something is or give you advice on what you should use. It is an old Haight St. store which I think has been in the neighborhood as long as I have (1959 for me)

As a regular SF tourist and crafter, I ALWAYS visit this place when I'm in SF! It's got a fun…read moreselection of a bit of everything. They have a lot of costume-making supplies and a huge selection of colorful faux fur! I always find things there that I don't normally see in my local craft stores! You can feel the joy that is SF Pride in this store! I love it!

Crochet bees

Yarn

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Patient not brushes

Hautico Fabrics & Parties

4.9(9 reviews)

0.8 mi•Civic Center

One of a new fabric shop in the city. We used to go to Britex Fabrics, but it is so expensive! This…read moreis a value place for fashion designers or students needed quality fabrics for projects or works.

Very Recommend! Nice price! It's really good for students! I went to Britex Fabrics previously for…read moreall of my fabrics, but they are too expensive for students. Now, I am very glad to meet this fabric store. They also have a preorder service, it's really cool. I can book some fabrics for my future project here.

Designer fabrics in the store

Branding of the storefront

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Fashion and fabrics gallery in the store

Stonemountain & Daughter Fabrics

4.3(323 reviews)

9.1 mi•Downtown Berkeley

This is a great place for all your fabric needs with experts' advice delivered to you with…read morekindness. I always feel intimidated in fabrics store but not there. Don't hesitate to ask - the staff are super helpful. The only bad question is the one you don't ask. Pricing is reasonable and the quality is always there; cheap project to high end ones. Parking on the street with meters.

Exceptional service!! Best quality fabric. Excellent selection! Worth every penny! Kind…read moreknowledgeable sales associates who know sewing!

8.7 mi•Piedmont Ave, North Oakland

Beautiful imported Lady McElroy fashion fabrics!

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First sewing project done!

Piedmont Fabric

4.6(132 reviews)

What a great fabric store! Found a beautiful piece for a dress. Lots to choose from including…read moreunique fabrics and for a very reasonable price.

Wonderful small fabric store that carries buttons, ribbons & some sewing tools as well as fabric &…read morethread. Very helpful staff. Variety of fabrics from cottons for quilting, canvas for bag making & various things for clothing construction. Highly recommend@@

BUTTONS!!!

Located at 4172 Piedmont Ave., Oakland, CA

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More Buttons!!

Pickering International

5.0(2 reviews)

0.7 mi•Lower Nob Hill

Very kind business owner who goes out of her way to help you find the right fabric. Def recommend…read morevisiting

This is a great place to buy wholesale fabric with very low minimums (10 yards). You'll need an…read moreappointment, as that they are a wholesale business and not a retail store. Sometimes they have remnants that measure less than ten yards, and you can purchase them on the spot. Friendly staff!

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The Sewing Room

4.9(43 reviews)

9.0 mi

I have taken a few classes at the sewing room and absolutely love it there! I like how it offers a…read morelarge variety of classes, different time slots to choose from, and provides almost everything you will need for the classes. My instructors Julie Ann and Christine are very experienced in both fashion design and teaching. They are patient, sweet, creative, and knowledgeable. I'm currently working on a two piece fitted wool dress and blazer set, which I'm super excited about! I can't wait to go to my classes each week.

I moved to Alameda 6 months ago and wandered into The Sewing Room while exploring Park St. I am a…read moreself-taught hobby sewer and was so excited to have a sewing store walking distance from me. They have a beautiful small selection of fabrics, notions, and patterns but they really excel in classes. I decided to take a garment class (the lined jacket), not for help, but for community, and I'm so happy that I did! Christine was a great teacher and I do pick up some tricks! My goal this year was to grow my skills, so I decided to enroll in the Sketch to Garment class. It has been so fun working with Julie Ann and my fellow students. I was worried I'd struggle because I don't have sketching or design experience, but I love how easy and creative they made it! I'm looking forward to more. Come to The Sewing Room for community, creativity, and knowledge!

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The mood board I made in the first part of Sketch to Garment with Julie Ann!

Sketched from my Sketch to Garment class. I have ZERO drawing skills but they make it easy and fun! I'm so proud of these sketches.

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The lined jacket I made in class with Christine!

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37 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Alex L.

20 years ago

Britex Fabrics has everything imaginable: buttons, yarns, ribbons, fabrics, trims, knitting supplies, faux furs, laces, imported fabrics from all over the world...never can you find such a selection!! Everyone keeps on saying Britex has the best selection in the bay area---they have the best selection in the entire WORLD!!! i go to los angeles (for business) very frequently, and i visit new york city (to see my family) and there is nothing like the selection at BRITEX! i can not give enough "coodoo's"...worth every trip in the world!!! they also have a mailing list which you can sign up on the internet and receive sales info !! you can go to: www.britexfabrics.com (the website is beautiful !!) BRITEX FABRICS IS THE BEST FABRIC STORE IN THE WORLD...and whoever says it isn't just doesn't know anything about fabrics...simply! where else can you find such a selection of fine fabrics!?! BRITEX IS SIMPLY THE BEST! IT IS, NO QUESTION, WELL WORTH OVER A 5 STAR RATING!!! i would give it 100 stars if i could! (A MILLION THUMBS UP!) =) LOVE this store...as you can tell! the people are NICE too, i dont know what everyone is taking about--every single time i go, i get the kindest people... read more

Tiffany C.

6 years ago

My shopping experience with Brightex is usually on par. However, shopping with them earlier today changed my views. I was shopping for silk ribbons for my boss. They were good in the beginning, and even Sharman, whom I heard was the owner, conversed with me briefly. However, my boss told me that they were not the right ones, so I went back and tried to return/exchange them with the right kinds and colors. I even showed the correct sample to them to see if they carry that kind. Sharman then called me out for making her uncomfortable and told me that it was not their fault. Not sure why she felt that way over such a simple request! I just wanted to return/exchange them with the right ones! To add insult to injury, she even asked me if this was my first time shopping at Brightex, in which I honestly answered that I've shopped here several times, but not for silk ribbons. She can kindly tell me about the return/exchange policy, but I did find her condescending tone along with those additional questions uncalled for! I will reconsider shopping there in the future unfortunately. read more

Ahnui Y.

101

19 years ago

When I was 24 years old, I broke up with the first boyfriend that I had ever had. We'd been together for 6 years, lived together for two, had a dog together, and I thought that we'd be together forever. And then he dumped me. For an older woman. Ten years older than him. Left me, left the dog, moved in with CLAIRE. CLAIRE who steals boys from girls. Do you hear me CLAIRE? Anyway. Screw Claire and screw Adam. Because I went to Britex and spent weeks there. I bought enough fabric to wallpaper my whole buidling with. But I didn't. I just sat and sewed. I sewed about 15 different outfits for my dog. About 17 skirts and 10 dresses for myself and made about 666 stuffed voodoo dolls of Claire and Adam. They are getting married now. It's only been 10 months! Anyway, if it weren't for Britex and what my therapist calls healthy mourning (she said voodoo dolls were cool, okay? I'm not psycho!) I would probably be throwing rocks through her window and through her brain. Instead, I'm just sticking needles into her fertility spot. read more

Liz P.

Elite 26

188

218

902

3 years ago

Britex Fabric, an iconic San Francisco institution with a history spanning over six decades, has been a cherished destination for me since my teenage years when I first began sewing. I would frequent this store, captivated by its remarkable array of textiles. The quality of the fabrics is extraordinary, and the staff is both attentive and well-informed. Britex Fabric truly serves as a haven for designers, showcasing exquisite textiles sourced from across the globe. Douglas helped us on this occasion. He was joyful, patient, and supportive of mixing and matching fabrics to find the right vibe! He made the experience priceless. As a seasoned designer, I can appreciate the high-quality and uniqueness of the fabrications and trims offer at Britex. It's not meant for home sewers looking for bargains or commodity products. Lastly, Britex is located in Union Square with an abundance of activities nearby, so it's worth a day trip from anywhere in the Bay Area. read more

Marc N.

14 years ago

Sometimes I think my girlfriend lives at Britex. She said nod more nookie till I tell the yelp world about them (LOL) It wouldn't be so bad if she didn't spend half of here (our) paychecks there. I have to say when I'm dragged in there with her even I am impressed. The staff is nice, even to me, and she gets in and out pretty fast with her arms full of stuff. Susan generally finds what she's looking for there, and the cloth is highquality even if you're paying an arm and leg for the stuff. I like the shirts she's made for me anyway. If you want to meet Susan just go down to Britex any weekend, she's the one with the patient boyfriend. Bottom line? She says some of the fabric is outrageous in price, but the says it's stuff you can't find anywhere else. As long as I get shirts made from the roll ends I'm happy too. read more

june b.

124

16 years ago

I just got home from Britex (one of my many stops on the day, but the highlight!) -- and I bought a MISSONI knit! Yes, can you believe it? they have actually Missoni knits. The fabric looks just liek the really expensive dresses in Neiman marcus (but you could make at a fraction of the cost). OK, the fabric was pricey (VERY), it was $95/yd, and you had to buy more than 1yd as the way it is knit, you have to use the width (i.e, not the usual 'with nap' direction). But, if all goes well, I will soon have a 'Missoni dress' for ~$140, which is pretty amazing. Their buyer does a great job hunting down top-notch fabrics. I've also seen Armani (but have not yet seen Chanel or Valentino, but I will keep looking!). If you want a Missoni, better get it quick or they will be gone! read more

gigi g.

13 years ago

Had a recent bad experience at a store I usually enjoy shopping at. Just bought five lovely fabrics, and discovered once having them home and prepping them for sewing, that they ALL have fabric swatches cut out of them! This was NOT taken into account when cutting my fabrics, so I essentially paid for that extra piece that I did not receive. --might not be such a big deal if fabrics were inexpensive, but one fabric cost $155/yd and another $125/yd. This means I was taken for $8 per piece. So my warning if you are going to shop there is INSPECT the fabrics before you let them cut for you. Or you too will get a cut-into piece of fabric and have to pay for it. I did send them a note complaining about this poor sampling policy of theirs and got an apology (only). read more

paul c.

17 years ago

On October 2 I purchased 19 yards of fabric. I thought the fabric would work but I was wrong. I returned the fabric on October 5 as received. They charged me a Whopping 30% cutting/re-stocking fee and gave me the 70% as a store credit !!! Dina informed me I was fortunate they accepted in back at all! The day after I paid full price for the material, I received a notice in the mail that they're having a 30% sale on all in stock fabrics. The sales force is wonderful but the restocking fee is Exorbitant and unfair when the material was returned a few days later in such large, salable quantity and then to obligate me to accept a store credit on top of the 30%!?!! Now I'm out $118.53 for borrowing the fabric for three days!!! read more

Gloria B.

17 years ago

What's really great about this store is the amazing selection. Not only do they have every kind of fabric you could possibly be looking for, they also have buttons, ribbons, tassels, etc. If you are making any kind of sewing project, or need the perfect embellishment to complete the look of a hat, then this is the place to come. What's not great is the spotty customer service. I've had it good here, but also not. Finally, the prices are high, but you can't fault a shop for having a thorough selection in a high rent area, and then charging top dollar. Or maybe you can, but then you'd just be a 'complainer.' read more

l. l. p.

20 years ago

This place is phenom. It's 5 star ***** for lookers of great fabric. The staff is wonderful. Everytime I go (not often) I get the right help to help me figure just how much I need for my patternless projects. My latest (bedroom redo) was pinneed down thanks to Alexandra on the 2nd floor. She asked just the right questions and we were able to zero in on the right fabric for bed, bath and beyond. I wasn't dressed to the nines but my attitude was right. Can't wait to go again when I'm finished with duvet, windows and towel trims. 1 project at a time. No Joanne's or Walmart for me thank you! read more

E D.

16 years ago

THE MECCA of textiles and all the trimmings, the mecca. I doubt you'd find anything close to it unless you are in NYC. Gorgeous selection of fabrics. Each floor is detailed and organized so well to find exactly what you need and no doubt you will find what you're looking for. The staff is so helpful and knowledgeable, they know everything about textiles. The trimmings department is amazing, again, there's nothing you could not possibly find. Great selection of how to books on all sorts of design ideas. Worth it just to gaze at the amazing fabrics on the first floor...to dream. read more

Allison L.

14 years ago

OMG! What a place! I feel like I died and went to fabric heaven. I wanted to touch everything! Gosh, about my review....I went in to buy some ribbon for my going away dress (wedding attire) and I was told to try Britex. The lady on floor 2 (i think) was very helpful. The place was busy but I didn't feel rushed or neglected. I found the ribbon with some help and ended up buying all kinds of fabric for things I want to have made. Now the issue is finding the person to do the sewing. Oh well, I couldn't resist! read more

H C.

16 years ago

Britex runs on the pricey side - espeially for side things like drapery tassels - but if you are looking for a super classy wool or extremely fine sequined fabric, Britex is a good bet to check. I've seen fabric there that i've never seen anywhere else. This is a high end store with a high-end selection of fabric. The easiest place to park is in the underground garage in the center of Union Square - Britex is just a half block from it, on the FAO Swartxz corner. Staff is very nice and knowledgeable. read more

Tonia N.

19 years ago

This place is like my haven. I can lose a few hours just browsing and matching things together. I should mention, own an alterations business and spend most of my days sewing. Of course, I wish some of the fabrics were cheaper, but it is completely understandable why they are not. Seriously though, you can find ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING here. I have sent many clients here to pick out wedding dress fabrics as well as all the accessories. Staff is very helpful if approached with intent to buy. read more

Sheila F.

7 years ago

I was preparing to celebrate my Sorority, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. Centennial Celebration and needed help with my design for my sorority jacket. Lance on the 2nd floor provided me with excellent customer service. I really appreciated his energy, kindness and professionalism. I love how I felt leaving Britex and I look forward to returning to purchase more items for a list of designs that are on my things to do list. Lance deserves five stars ***** Thank you so much. read more

Courtney S.

17 years ago

Britex is the best fabric store in San francisco! They are very well organized and helpful. I was helped by a women by the name Kristen, she was so incredibly helpful, she practically sewed the dress for me. She helped me when my pattern that I brought in, helped me pick out my fabric, and even measured me to make sure that I made the right size dress. If you go there ask for Kristen, she is very sweet and will def help you find what you are looking for! read more

M L.

Elite 11

105

13 years ago

Sorry Britex, you are not what you'd promised. I just bought a piece of fabric to make my table cloth, and I didn't notice until I was almost finished hemming it that there was a whole half an inch of the fabric missing. Why? I just paid $67 for it! If you're gonna charge 30 dollars a yard for fabric, you should definitely hire people who know how to cut. NO BUENO. Too expensive for screwed up fabric! read more

Mila N.

2 years ago

Younger people do like to sew as well! I was ignored by all the workers here but the elderly white women right behind me were received with such enthusiasm. I felt so uncomfortable and was shocked by $20-40 per yard price tag for cotton prints. When I left without buying anything, I said thank you very nicely to the ladies at the front of the store and was ignored. To younger people, try a different store. read more

elizabeth s.

19 years ago

I think the fabrics at Britex are just wonderful. It is expensive, yes, I agree with everyone that posted that. But it's great to have this option for something special. The staff is OK - not very helpful, but not horrible either. I also think that posting comments like: "this store is crap crap crap" is not terribly helpful. read more

Valerie M.

834

219

15 years ago

Walking into Britex Fabrics is a bit overwhelming because you are come face to face with reams and reams of beautiful fabric. This store is four floors of fabric heaven. Not only that but there are things for your arts and crafts needs, too! The sales ladies are very knowledgeable and pleasant. I love Britex! read more

Britex Fabrics - fabricstores - Updated September 2026

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I don't usually leave reviews but I was really taken aback by my experience at this store. The…read morestore itself is very cute and in such a great location but the customer service was horrible! I'm a beginner knitter and was already overwhelmed. I asked the person at the cash register a question and they laughed at me like I was dumb. Truly so rude and not welcoming at all. I get people have bad days but wow

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Reliquary

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Great selection of jewelry, vintage pieces, and wheats find something special and one of a kind…read more The space is a work of art and always a delight to visit.

I would call Reliquary a showcase of pretty things for pretty people. The store's footprint is…read morefairly ample. Picture a large, rectangular space where one could twirl like a dervish at not knock into anything. The till/display counter is found along the left-hand side of the shop toward the back. The lone employee on the day I visited was also to be found there scrolling through things on the internet. I'd come in looking for a particular jeweler's work. Eventually, I made my way to the sales person and asked if they were a stockist for so-and-so. The employee answered in the affirmative at about the same time as I spied the jewelry in question. The employee neither offered to show me any of the items under glass nor shared much about the jeweler's technique. (Never mind, I had done my homework before coming in, so was well-versed in the methods of this particular artist.) The selection in question was tidy, so I asked if the jewelry maker also makes custom work. The response was: 'Well, they can't make you whatever they want, but...' Um, what? If I'm asking after a Picasso, then why would I expect it to look like a Chagall? Also: If the store only stocks ruby and sapphire rings in size 7, or whatever, and I'd like a ring only fashioned with rubies in a size 9, then that's called 'custom'. (Unless, of course, the artist has a cache of exactly what I'd like located in an atelier somewhere.) In short, the shop is pretty as a postcard, but the customer service is fairly paltry. Be prepared to do most of the verbal footwork during the interaction, if you do decide to make the journey in to Reliquary.

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